The Raytheon Systems, Phalanx Close In Weapons System was first developed in 1977, and began to be deployed in the US Navy from 1980. It fires 20mm shells and can be operated fully automatically using both radar and Forward-looking Infra-Red (FLIR) t...

This view of Ark Royal's flight deck clearly shows the take-off route for the ship's complement of Sea Harrier FA.2 aircraft. The 'ski-jump' at the end provides a boost of much-needed lift at the last moment.

An Augusta Westland EH101, in service with the Royal Naval Air Service as a Merlin HM.1 No. R269. It's primary roles are anti-submarine and Anti-surface warfare, but can also be used in the Airborne early warning, Search and Rescue, Medevac and trans...

The airborne early warning radar aircraft used by the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm during the 1960's. It's highly distinctive shape includes novel coaxial contra-rotating propellers, double folding wings and the bulbous radar housing on the underside.

One of Great Britain's last big carriers, the previous Ark Royal was laid down in May 1943, launched May 1950 but was not completed until 1956 to revised/modernised plans. Displacement 45,000 tons, Dimensions 804 feet x 135 feet x 33 feet, Speed 31 k...

After the Falklands War it became clear that the Royal Navy lacked and Airborne Early Warning radar capability. This version of the trusty Sea King helicopter is the result, note the radar dome slung amidships, which pivots rearward for landing.